Meet orangutans and river dolphins! 9 Recommended Tourist Attractions in Kuching

Kuching is a city located in the northwestern part of Borneo Island, in the Malaysian state of Sarawak. Once governed by the British, this city showcases a blend of cultural structures, such as Victorian-style historical buildings, Chinese temples, and colorful shoplots in longhouses. The name "Kuching" means "cat" in Malay, and cat-themed structures and monuments can be found scattered throughout the city. Just a short trip away, visitors can experience Malaysia’s rich natural environment and encounter rare wildlife, or explore tourist attractions offering glimpses into the lives of indigenous communities. In this feature, we carefully selected 9 must-visit tourist spots in Kuching.

1. Sarawak Cultural Village

Located near Kuching in Sarawak, the Sarawak Cultural Village offers a rich cultural experience showcasing the traditions of around 26 ethnic groups in the region. This living museum brings together the authentic lifestyles of seven major indigenous groups. Visitors can explore traditional houses, tools, artifacts, and engaging displays that offer a hands-on cultural education.

A highlight of the visit is the energetic cultural show held in the village’s theater hall. Particularly popular are the mesmerizing performances by beautiful dancers and thrilling blowpipe demonstrations, which captivate audiences with humor and passion. For food lovers, the village also features restaurants and a food court where visitors can enjoy authentic Sarawakian cuisine. The village is approximately a 45-minute drive from Kuching, and local tours offer a convenient way to visit.

2. Kuching Esplanade

The Kuching Esplanade is a beautifully maintained promenade stretching along the scenic Sarawak River. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering picturesque views of the golden-roofed Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Building across the river. For those with time, an affordable river cruise provides a relaxing and photogenic way to take in the sights.

The riverside is also home to numerous street food stalls, souvenir shops, and a large food court, making it ideal for both sightseeing and sampling local flavors. Whether you're enjoying a sunset walk or dining after your river cruise, the Kuching Esplanade is a must-visit destination during your stay in Sarawak.

3. Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre

The Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in Kuching, Sarawak is a renowned sanctuary for rescued and orphaned orangutans. These gentle apes are rehabilitated in a natural rainforest environment until they are ready to return to the wild. Unlike traditional zoos, Semenggoh offers an open, forest-like setting where orangutans roam freely.
Spanning approximately 653 hectares, this expansive nature reserve allows visitors to witness orangutans in their semi-wild habitat. The best time to see them is during feeding hours: 9:00–10:00 AM and 3:00–4:00 PM. During these periods, orangutans emerge from the forest to collect food. Entry is permitted only during these feeding times, making the experience more natural and less intrusive. Take note: during the rainy season, when wild fruits are abundant, orangutans might not appear even at feeding time.

4. Sarawak Museum

The Sarawak Museum in Kuching is the oldest museum on Borneo Island, offering a rich cultural and educational experience. The first floor features displays of preserved animals and insects, including a massive whale skeleton that fascinates many visitors with its lifelike size and detail. On the second floor, you’ll find exhibits on the indigenous people of Sarawak, including a replica of a Dayak longhouse.

This museum is a treasure trove of traditional crafts, musical instruments, and tribal clothing, making it an engaging stop for both children and adults. Best of all, admission is free, making it a perfect indoor activity in Kuching—especially on rainy days.

5. Fairy Cave

Named "Fairy Cave" because the stalagmite at the entrance resembles a Chinese deity, this mystical limestone cave near Kuching, Malaysia, is a captivating attraction for nature and photography lovers. The contrast of earthy brown rocks, vibrant green moss, and ethereal beams of light streaming into the cave creates an enchanting, almost magical atmosphere.

According to legend, an entire town was turned to stone overnight due to a curse, and visitors can still spot rock formations shaped like humans around the site. Recently gaining popularity as a spiritual "power spot," Fairy Cave draws tourists from around the world who are curious to witness its mysterious beauty. As one of the top natural attractions in Sarawak, this breathtaking creation of nature is a must-visit when exploring Kuching.

6. Mount Santubong

For an unforgettable hiking adventure in Kuching, Mount Santubong offers a thrilling escape into the heart of Borneo’s lush tropical rainforest. As you ascend through dense greenery and sloping trails, you’ll feel a deep connection with nature as if you're becoming one with the forest. The mountain, rich in biodiversity and rivers, is also a sanctuary for exotic wildlife.

The nearby rivers are home to the Irrawaddy dolphin and the pink-colored Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin. With a bit of luck, trekkers might even encounter the elusive proboscis monkey in the wild. Beginner-friendly trekking routes are available, making Mount Santubong a perfect destination for both novice and seasoned hikers.

7. Chinese History Museum

Located in the heart of Kuching, the Chinese History Museum showcases exhibits about the contributions of the Chinese community to the development of Malaysia. Using photographs and dioramas, the museum offers engaging and easy-to-understand displays, making it enjoyable for both children and adults—even for visitors unfamiliar with Malaysian history.

Thanks to free admission, the museum is also a popular destination for local school field trips in Kuching. Why not take this opportunity while exploring Kuching to learn more about Malaysia's multicultural heritage in a fun and informative way?

8. DBKU Orchid Garden

With around 75,000 plants representing approximately 82 species, the DBKU Orchid Garden offers a vibrant array of orchids from around the world. Many of the species found here are rare. Amazingly, entry is also free, making it a popular spot not just for tourists but for Kuching locals as well. Surrounded by beautiful flowers, this garden may be the perfect place to relax and unwind from your journey.

9. Tua Pek Kong Temple

In Kuching, due to its historical transformation, various religious structures can be found. Among them is the beautifully contrasted red and green Tua Pek Kong Temple, a Chinese temple built in 1770 to honor Chinese migrants who arrived in Penang. Remarkably, it survived both the Great Fire of Kuching in 1884 and the ravages of World War II. As a result, it has come to be regarded as the guardian deity of the city. This temple is a beloved tourist spot where you can truly feel the multicultural spirit of Kuching.

◎ Summary

While Kuching is known for its rich natural beauty, the city is also home to many museums and attractions where you can learn about the history of Malaysia and Kuching. For cat lovers, there's the "Cat Museum" and "Cat Festival" inspired by the city’s feline name. There are still many beautiful architectural landmarks not covered here, so be sure to take a walk around town and enjoy the delightful cityscape.

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Meet orangutans and river dolphins! 9 Recommended Tourist Attractions in Kuching